Young artists, along with their supporters and well-wishers, gathered at the opening of the exhibition of Visual, Literary and Performing Arts and Craft, launched by the Sophia Artists Group on Friday at the Pattensen Multi –Purpose Community Centre, Section ‘B’ Sophia.
Under the theme “The Pride of Our Community”, the week-long event running from August 13 to August 21, will showcase the talent of the young artists in the area.
Apart from the art exhibits, there will also be a cultural segment including presentations in song, dance and drama.
According to Vice president of the group, Louis Jordan, the involvement of the community youths in art is a positive step since it will keep them off the streets and give them a sense of purpose.
He pointed out that the objective of the exhibition is to showcase the culture of the community and to show off the potential of the community as a whole.
Referring to the young participants of the exhibition, Jordan said, “The skills they learnt can contribute towards their emerging as professionals in the future.”
Some of the young members of the Sophia Artist’s Group are Joshua Grey, 11, Kizzy Thornhill, 12, llford Thom 15, and Shania Garaway 11.
Ten talented boys and girls between the ages of eight and 16, who have shown enthusiasm in sculpting, are also taught the craft three days a week at the community centre.
Following the exhibition, a gospel concert was held on Saturday while a capoeira exhibition was presented on Sunday and a grand presentation on Indian culture, including songs, dance and drama will be held on August 20th.
The exhibition runs from 16:30 to 20:00hrs daily. There is an entrance fee of $100 and all proceeds will go towards buying equipment for the art class.